Spiders and other biting and stinging pests

Introduction

Few things are as memorable as receiving a sharp bite or sting from an insect, spider, or other venomous arthropod. In fact, that’s the point! Arthropod venom is nature’s way of leaving a memorable impression on the target, including you.

Most arthropod venoms are painful to some degree. The black widow spider may have the potentially most toxic venom of any arthropod in Texas, but fleas, mosquitoes and (increasingly) bed bugs afflict more people on a regular basis. In addition, some biting insect, like ticks and mosquitoes, lack venom but can transmit disease. Hypersensitive reactions to stings or bites are probably a more important cause of human illness than the toxicity of venoms alone. In hypersensitive or allergic persons, the body’s immune system can provoke an irritating, medically serious, or even fatal reaction to a minor sting or bite. In addition, some arthropod bites can be a means of introducing an infectious pathogen. West Nile virus transmitted by mosquitoes, murine typhus spread by fleas, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever transmitted by ticks are examples.

Knowing something about the biology and control methods for these pests can reduce your risk of bites, stings, infections and allergic reactions. The following F@ctsheets provide information on a variety of stinging and biting pests that we commonly encounter in Texas.

Spiders

Spiders (E-408) This publication describes common Texas spiders–both the good and the bad. Learn how to help prevent spiders from entering the home and how to handle those that do, with tips for professionals.

Other Biting Insects and other Arthropods

Conenose bugs (ENT-3008) – Secretive insects that feed at night on the blood of wild rodents, pets and even people. These insects also transmit a protozoan disease called Chagas’ disease which is explained in this video.

Ticks – Ticks a concern? Check out our Tick App for information about tick biology, the different species of ticks, how to control, prevent bites and remove them.

Mosquitoes

DIY Backyard Mosquito Control (ENTO-054 . Though cities provide basic mosquito control services for our communities, there are things individuals can do to reduce mosquito pressure around the home, including do-it-yourself and professional mosquito control.

Zika Precautions for Women (ENTO-053). Women of childbearing age, especially anyone considering a Caribbean cruise or any trips to South or Central America or the South Pacific, need to read this.

Mosquitoes and the Diseases They Transmit (B-6119). Mosquitoes are not only a nuisance, they are also important disease carriers. This publication describes the life cycle of mosquitoes, explains how to identify and control them, and discusses the diseases they transmit.

Mosquito Safari Website. Go on a mosquito safari with this interactive AgriLife website. Mosquito Safari takes you on a walk through both urban and semi-rural landscapes to learn more about mosquito risks, biology and control options.

Mosquito videos. Learn more about practical ways to make your home and landscape safer from mosquitoes, and see mosquito larvae breeding in a backyard setting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aerial Spraying. Are you concerned about West Nile virus, but also concerned about your city’s spray program? This update written during the 2012 WNV outbreak in Dallas attempts to answer some of the more common questions.

Other Outdoor Biting and Stinging Pests

Chiggers (E-365) One of the most irritating bites you can get comes from one of the tiniest of outdoor pests. Suspect chiggers when you get bites around your ankles, waist and areas of tight-fitting clothing.

Scorpions (E-362) Scorpions are common in most of Texas. Their stinging behavior is unpredictable and individual reactions to stings may vary. This publication describes the life cycle, behavior and control of scorpions.

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